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Peru is set to impose emergency measures after one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests against the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior.

Official Measures

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima imminently and crafting a comprehensive plan to address escalating safety concerns.

Wednesday evening's demonstration – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – was the latest in a series of demonstrations targeting graft and increasing lawlessness, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday.

Protest Dynamics

Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Police fired teargas while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices.

"Everyone must go!" demonstrators shouted upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers surrounding the structure.

Casualties and Investigation

Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, lost his life in the demonstration and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, said Fernando Losada, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. The nation's judicial authorities confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Government Position

Jerí expressed regret over Ruiz's death through social media channels, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. He attributed the unrest to "criminal elements exploiting peaceful protests".

"The full force of the law will be on them," he said.

After attending a meeting about the protests at congress, Jerí said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".

Proposed Reforms

The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail.

Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and 11 people were detained.

Political Context

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out.

The 38-year-old leader has promised to make crime his top priority but encountered multiple controversies, involving graft accusations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Previous Administration

Boluarte's government encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, leading to dozens of deaths and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal.

The legislative body previously led by the current president faces comparable public disapproval, with a single-digit approval rating.